Last week, we talked about Mental Health Awareness Month, but May is pretty multifaceted: it’s also National Small Business Month! Small businesses make up the heart of our communities, and the numbers support it: 84% of Americans think it’s important to support small businesses. And you know who we’re especially thinking about this Small Business Month?
All of you amazing folks who make the wild heart of the outdoors your office – the adventure outfitters crafting those unforgettable journeys, the hunting outfitter experts who know these lands like the back of their hand, the masterminds behind those bucket-list adventure vacations, and the trusty folks who help us all rent camping gear and get out and explore.
You’re out there making memories happen, right here in our own backyard and beyond.
You’re the reason folks get to breathe that crisp mountain air on those invigorating hiking trips, the reason families create those crackling campfire stories after a perfect day with rented gear in some of the best national parks to visit in the US, the reason that thrill of adventure travel becomes a real-life experience. Celebrating Small Business Month? That’s about giving a good, solid nod to you.
Ensuring Protection for Your Business
Now, let’s be straight. Running an outdoor gig? It’s not always not always a walk in the park, even if your business is literally a walk in the park. You’ve got Mother Nature throwing her curveballs, specialized gear that needs its TLC, and the most important thing of all – your clients. So, for this Small Business Month, let’s make it your goal to get a good, firm grip on small business insurance. It’s like having that reliable compass and a well-packed first-aid kit for your outdoor business journey.
Let’s unpack this small business insurance thing, and lay it all out so you know you’re not missing any essential pieces. Think of it as your business’s tent and rainfly, protecting you on the trail from every unforeseen storm. Key types of coverage you’ll want to have a good look at include:
- – Workers Compensation Insurance: Got a solid team helping you lead those breathtaking hiking trips or keeping the camping equipment rental shop running smooth as a well-oiled reel? Then workers compensation insurance is likely something you’re already familiar with – and for darn good reason. If someone on your team takes a tumble out on the trail or strains a muscle loading up a camping gear rental, this helps take care of their medical bills and lost wages. It’s about looking out for the folks who make your business move, plain and simple.
- – Business Liability Insurance: This one here? This is your downhill helmet, protecting against those unexpected “oops” moments. What if a client slips and falls during one of those awesome adventure vacations you put together? Or maybe someone has a mishap with some gear at your adventure outfitters headquarters? Business liability insurance is there to help with those unforeseen “uh-ohs,” potentially covering those legal costs and settlements. It’s like having your fastened to a sturdy anchor while climbing El Capitan – crucial support when you need it most.
- – Commercial Auto Insurance: Now, for all of you who are constantly on the move, hauling kayaks down to the Rogue River or shuttling eager adventurers to those national park trips in your trusty vehicles, listen up: your personal car insurance? Likely won’t cover you if an incident happens while you’re using that vehicle for your business. You need commercial auto insurance. It’s designed specifically for business use, protecting your vehicles and your livelihood on the road, right here where we all drive.
- – Commercial Property Insurance for Outdoor Activities: Let’s talk about the heart and soul of your operation – that top-notch gear. Whether it’s the boats for your guided fishing trips, the climbing ropes and crash pads for a rock climbing adventure, or the sturdy tents in your camping equipment rental inventory for folks heading out to Crater Lake, commercial property insurance can be a real lifesaver if things get damaged by a sudden storm, get lost out in the wilderness, or even get stolen. It helps you get back in the game without taking a punch to the wallet that could knock you down for good.
Now, for those of you who’ve got a physical storefront right here in our community – like an outdoor gear retail shop – that’s celebrating Small Business Month, you might want to take a good look at BOP insurance (Business Owner’s Policy). BOP insurance bundles those key coverages like business liability insurance and property insurance for your physical location into one straightforward package.
For every single one of you leading the charge out in the great wide open, being licensed and insured isn’t just a state requirement; it tells your clients you’re serious about what you do and about keeping them safe. And having your guides certified in wilderness first aid? That shows folks (and your insurance agency) that you’re ready for whatever the wilderness might throw your way, and might get you a discount on your insurance premiums.
Marketing Your Outdoor Business During Small Business Month
Now, Small Business Month is also the perfect time to let everyone know about the awesome experiences you’re offering! But, how do you get the word out there and bring those adventurers your way? Here’s some marketing ideas for you to use this month:
- – Engaging Social Media Campaigns: Get those jaw-dropping photos from your hiking trips through the Cascades and those beaming smiles from your adventure vacations out there for everyone to see! Show off the quality of that camping equipment rental gear you’ve got. Let folks see the incredible adventures you make happen, right here in our stunning state.
- – Collaborating with Local Guides and Outfitters: Think about teaming up with other fantastic local businesses. For example, if you run a fishing guide service, why not team up with your local bait & tackle shop? Could you put together a special Small Business Month package deal that showcases the best of what you both have to offer? Working together can really help spread the word, since both businesses get to tap into each other’s clientele.
- – Promote Your Specialties From the Customers POV: Give the spotlight to your customers by highlighting their reviews, or asking for an interview after their adventure. You can also run a hashtag campaign on your social media, or invite a writer for your local paper to come on trip with you. Let the adventurers do your advertising for you!
Final Thoughts & Giving Thanks for Small Business Month
So, this Small Business Month, let’s all give a big, heartfelt thanks to our local outdoor heroes. Support their businesses, tell your friends about the amazing experiences they offer, tag them in your instagram posts of that wild adventure with them, and help them continue to thrive for season after season.
And if you’re one of these fantastic small business owners and have any questions – big or small – about your specific guides and outfitters insurance needs, well, you know we’re right here, always ready to lend a hand. We’re your neighbors, and we’re here to help you gear up for success and enjoy a little peace of mind along the way. Happy Small Business Month to each and every one of you!
If you’re ready to gear up and get outside but still need coverage, you can reach out to our team at Ashland Insurance online or give us a call!
541.482.0831 Ashland
541.857.0679 Medford